Calvin Schermerhorn ist ein Historiker und Professor, der sich der Erforschung von Ungleichheit unter Afroamerikanern und der Sklaverei in den USA widmet. Seine Arbeit bemüht sich, eine problematische Geschichte ans Licht zu bringen, in deren Umfeld er aufwuchs. Er untersucht, wie die Sklaverei die amerikanische Gesellschaft geprägt hat und wie ihr Erbe bis heute fortwirkt. Schermerhorns Forschungen liefern entscheidende Einblicke in das komplexe Zusammenspiel von Rasse, Macht und Wirtschaftsstrukturen in der amerikanischen Geschichte.
Exploring the racial wealth gap in America, this book narrates the experiences of six Black families across generations. It highlights their challenges and resilience in the pursuit of financial stability and prosperity, providing a personal lens on the broader socio-economic issues that have shaped their lives. Through these compelling stories, the book delves into themes of systemic inequality, perseverance, and the enduring impact of history on wealth accumulation.
Written as an introduction for undergraduate students, Unrequited Toil explores the history of American slavery from the American Revolution to post- Civil War Reconstruction. Personal narratives are used across twelve chronologically ordered chapters to explore themes such as politics, economics, labor, literature, rebellion, and social conditions.
Slavery in the Antebellum Upper South
The narrative highlights the resilience of enslaved individuals who prioritized family bonds over financial gain. Rather than seeking wealth, their efforts were concentrated on protecting their loved ones from the brutal realities of the slave trade, emphasizing the deep connections and struggles within their communities.